v. & n.
--v.tr.
1. drive back (an attack or attacking enemy) by force of arms.
2 a rebuff (friendly advances or their maker). b refuse (a request or offer or its maker).
3 be repulsive to, repel.
4 foil in controversy.
--n.
1. the act or an instance of repulsing or being repulsed.
2 a rebuff.
Etymology: L repellere repuls- drive back (as REPEL)